Binaural microphones are a type of microphone that captures audio in a way that mimics how humans hear sound. They use two microphones placed in the same position as the ears to create a 3D audio effect that can be heard through headphones. Binaural microphones are commonly used for recording ASMR, immersive audio experiences, and live music performances.
When looking for the best binaural microphones, it’s important to consider the quality of the microphones, the ease of use, and the compatibility with different devices. The microphones should be able to capture clear and accurate audio, with minimal background noise. The ease of use is also important, as binaural microphones can be more complicated to set up than regular microphones. Compatibility with different devices, such as smartphones or cameras, is also a key factor to consider.
We tested several binaural microphones to identify the best options for different use cases. Whether you’re a content creator or a musician, we’ve found the top binaural microphones that will help you capture immersive audio experiences.
Best Binaural Microphones
If you’re looking to capture stunning 3D audio recordings, binaural microphones are the way to go. These microphones capture sound in a way that replicates the way we hear sound in real life, resulting in an immersive listening experience. In this roundup, we’ve compiled a list of the best binaural microphones on the market, each with its unique features and capabilities. Whether you’re a professional sound engineer or an amateur filmmaker, these microphones will help you take your audio recordings to the next level.
Sound Professionals Binaural Microphones
If you’re looking for a high-quality binaural microphone for recording quieter sounds, the Sound Professionals In-Ear Binaural microphones are a great option.
Pros
- The microphone is mounted in a comfortable super-soft in-ear holder that slips right into the ear structure.
- The microphone element is located within the Pinna, resulting in the most realistic recording possible.
- The microphone cables terminate in a stereo 1/8″ (3.5mm) gold-plated miniplug.
Cons
- The microphone is not suitable for recording very loud sounds.
- The microphone cables are only available in black or beige.
- The product may not be suitable for those who prefer over-ear headphones.
These binaural microphones are designed to be comfortable to wear and provide a realistic recording experience. They have a flat frequency response and an omni-directional pickup pattern, making them suitable for a wide range of recording situations.
The Sound Professionals In-Ear Binaural microphones are a great choice for anyone looking for a high-quality binaural microphone that is easy to use and provides a realistic recording experience. They are compatible with most portable recorders and are made in the USA.
SONICPRESENCE SP15C Binaural Microphone
The SONICPRESENCE SP15C Binaural Microphone is a great choice for creating spatial audio and recording live concerts, band practice, podcasts, and ASMR.
Pros
- Accurately records 360° spatial audio on a standard two-channel stereo track
- Crystal clear voice with awesome sounding spatial audio
- Compatible with popular sound and camera apps for Android, iOS, Mac, and Windows PCs
Cons
- Nothing out of the ordinary in terms of recording quality
- Complicated to figure out when downloading an app
- Hard to tell the difference in audio quality
The SONICPRESENCE SP15C Binaural Microphone is a wearable microphone that captures sound exactly as you hear it. It has no complicated learning curve and is like having an audio engineering team in your pocket. The microphone is compatible with popular sound and camera apps for Android, iOS, Mac, and Windows PCs, including Zoom, FiLMiC Pro, Logic X, Motiv Audio, Motiv Video, Apogee, Open Camera, Audacity, Garage Band, Final Cut, ProMovie, Movie Pro, USB Audio Pro, and Field Recorder.
The SP15C microphone has two-channel stereo 24 bits up to 96kHz dynamic range and a frequency range of 20Hz to 20kHz with low distortion, low handling noise, and no crackling or popping. It has a USB-C interface that plugs into everything, including Macs, PCs, Androids, and iPads. The microphone is made in the USA with patented technology and designed and developed by professional audio engineers in New York and Los Angeles. Users include Grammy winners, YouTubers, broadcasters, educators, journalists, bloggers, and videographers.
In conclusion, the SONICPRESENCE SP15C Binaural Microphone is a great choice for those looking to create spatial audio and record live concerts, band practice, podcasts, and ASMR. It is easy to use and compatible with popular sound and camera apps.
SONICPRESENCE SP15Pro Binaural Microphone
If you’re looking for a high-quality binaural microphone that captures sound exactly the way you hear it, then the SONICPRESENCE SP15Pro Binaural Microphone is an excellent choice.
Pros
- Captures sound exactly the way you hear it
- Renders multi-channel mixes in awesome 3D spatial audio
- Fits comfortably over your ears using ear hooks made of polyurethane synthetic rubber
Cons
- Not for use with phones (use the SP15C model with USB connector for phones)
- Weatherproof for outdoor use, but recommended windscreen is 12mm ID
- Expensive compared to other binaural microphones on the market
The SONICPRESENCE SP15Pro Binaural Microphone uses wearable HRTF technology to record and stream sound in spatial audio on social media, podcasts, ASMR, and live events. The microphone is designed and developed by professional audio engineers in New York and Los Angeles, including Grammy winners, YouTubers, broadcasters, educators, journalists, bloggers, and videographers.
The SP15Pro’s condenser microphones feature active balanced outputs with discrete silicon components and gold connectors. The omni-directional sensors are individually matched to +/- 0.5dB using a calibrated IEC 60942 Class 2 source. The frequency response is flat 20Hz to 20kHz. The super flexible Mogami cable ensures low handling noise, dynamic range >114dB, sensitivity: -35dB (18mV/Pascal), maximum SPL: 130dB.
The SP15Pro binaural stereo microphone has XLR connectors and phantom power 48-volt interface for professional video cameras, sound mixing consoles, and Zoom recorders with up to 32-bit floating point dynamic range. It’s not for use with phones. Use the SP15C model with USB connector for phones.
Overall, the SONICPRESENCE SP15Pro Binaural Microphone is a high-quality microphone that captures sound exactly the way you hear it. It’s perfect for YouTube creators, live streamers, broadcasters, and anyone who wants to record professional quality, spatial audio.
Sound Professionals MS-TFB-2-MOG-XLR Ultra-Low Noise in-Ear Binaural Microphones with XLR connectors for Devices with Phantom Power.
If you’re looking for the most realistic recording possible, then you should consider Sound Professionals MS-TFB-2-MOG-XLR Ultra-Low Noise in-Ear Binaural Microphones with XLR connectors for Devices with Phantom Power.
Pros
- These microphones offer an incredibly flat frequency response, ensuring that you get the most accurate sound possible.
- With their 48v phantom power XLR connectors, these microphones are perfect for use with a wide range of devices.
- The ultra-low noise level of these microphones means that you can record even the quietest sounds without any background hiss.
Cons
- These microphones are quite expensive compared to other options on the market.
- The in-ear mounting may not be comfortable for everyone, particularly if you’re not used to wearing in-ear headphones.
- The cable length of 59″ may not be long enough for some recording setups.
Sound Professionals MS-TFB-2-MOG-XLR Ultra-Low Noise in-Ear Binaural Microphones with XLR connectors for Devices with Phantom Power are designed to offer the most realistic recording possible. By placing the microphone element inside the Pinna, these microphones capture sound in the same way that your ears do. The result is an incredibly accurate recording that sounds just like being there in person.
These microphones are incredibly sensitive, with a signal-to-noise ratio of 75dB. This means that even the quietest sounds will be captured with incredible clarity. The omnidirectional pickup pattern ensures that you capture sound from all directions, while the small size of the microphones makes them incredibly easy to use.
The only downside to these microphones is their price. They are quite expensive compared to other options on the market, but the quality of the recording they produce is well worth the investment. Additionally, the in-ear mounting may not be comfortable for everyone, particularly if you’re not used to wearing in-ear headphones. Finally, the cable length of 59″ may not be long enough for some recording setups.
Sound Professionals In-Ear Binaural Microphones
If you’re looking for the most realistic recording possible, then the Sound Professionals In-Ear Binaural Microphones are a great choice.
Pros
- Flat frequency response
- Omni-directional pickup pattern
- Comfortable to wear – Small size molds to any ear
Cons
- Requires additional equipment to work effectively
- Can be noisy in low volume situations
- May slip out of ears
These microphones are designed to be mounted in super-soft, in-ear holders that slip right into the ear structure, placing the mic element right next to the ear canal, well within the Pinna. This results in the most realistic recording possible, from the perspective of the person wearing them. The cables terminate in a stereo 1/8″ (3.5mm) gold-plated miniplug.
While these microphones are great for realistic recordings, they do require additional equipment to work effectively. They can also be noisy in low volume situations, and may slip out of ears. However, if you’re looking for the most realistic recording possible, then the Sound Professionals In-Ear Binaural Microphones are definitely worth considering.
Sound Professionals Ultra Low Noise Ear-Hook Binaural Microphones
If you want to record extremely realistic audio from the perspective of the person wearing them, the Sound Professionals Ultra Low Noise Ear-Hook Binaural Microphones are a great choice.
Pros
- The ear-hook design is comfortable and easy to use.
- The microphones are placed right next to the ear canal, resulting in extremely realistic recordings.
- The cables terminate in a stereo 1/8″ (3.5mm) miniplug.
Cons
- The audio sensitivity is relatively low at 32 dB.
- The omnidirectional pickup pattern may not be suitable for all recording situations.
- The microphone body material is made of matte rubber, which may not be as durable as other materials.
These binaural microphones are made in the USA and have a flat frequency response, making them suitable for a wide range of recording applications. They can be used directly with any stereo recorder that has “plug-in-power” and produce extremely realistic recordings.
While recording, your hearing is not impaired, so you can enjoy the sound of the performance while making a very realistic recording. The microphones are small in size and can be easily transported.
Overall, if you’re looking for a comfortable and easy-to-use binaural microphone that produces extremely realistic recordings, the Sound Professionals Ultra Low Noise Ear-Hook Binaural Microphones are a great choice.
Sound Professionals Mini Binaural Microphones
If you’re looking for an affordable binaural microphone, the Sound Professionals Mini Binaural Microphones are a good option.
Pros
- Includes removable lapel clips
- Comes with windscreens
- Accurate recordings
Cons
- Fragile
- Connection issues
- Not as good as pinna mount type
These microphones are small and easy to use, making them a great option for beginners. They come with lapel clips and windscreens, which make them even more versatile. These microphones are designed to last a lifetime, with rugged cartridges that are handcrafted for accuracy.
The Sound Professionals Mini Binaural Microphones are a great way to capture sound from all directions. They produce extremely realistic recordings when listened to through headphones. They have a signal-to-noise ratio of 58 dB, a dynamic range of 81 dB/96 dB, and a frequency response of 20-20,000 Hz.
While these microphones are a good value, they are also fragile and can develop connection issues. They are not as good as pinna mount type microphones, but they are a good option for those on a budget.
In summary, if you’re looking for an affordable binaural microphone, the Sound Professionals Mini Binaural Microphones are a good option. They are easy to use and come with lapel clips and windscreens, but they are also fragile and not as good as pinna mount type microphones.
Sound Professionals Low Noise Ear-Hook Binaural Microphones
If you’re looking for a comfortable and realistic recording experience, the Sound Professionals Low Noise Ear-Hook Binaural Microphones are a great option.
Pros
- The ear-hook design is extremely comfortable and allows for realistic recordings.
- The small size of the microphones makes them easy to use and transport.
- The flat frequency response and omnidirectional pickup pattern produce high-quality recordings.
Cons
- Wind noise can be an issue when recording outside, so a windscreen is necessary.
- The microphone form factor is limited to just the microphone and requires plug-in power.
- The cables are only 48″ long, which may not be long enough for some recording situations.
These binaural microphones are mounted in super-soft ear hook holders that slip right onto the outside of the ear structure, allowing for realistic recordings from the perspective of the person wearing them. The cables terminate in a stereo 1/8″ (3.5mm) right angle gold-plated miniplug, making them compatible with any stereo recorder that has “plug-in-power”. While recording, your hearing is not impaired, so you can enjoy the sound of the performance while making a very realistic recording.
The flat frequency response and omnidirectional pickup pattern produce extremely realistic recordings. These microphones are made in the USA, and the microphone body material is matte rubber. They can be powered by 2-12vdc “plug in power” or power from the battery module, and have a dynamic range of 81dB/96dB.
In summary, the Sound Professionals Low Noise Ear-Hook Binaural Microphones are a great option for those looking for a comfortable and realistic recording experience. While wind noise can be an issue when recording outside, the flat frequency response and omnidirectional pickup pattern make up for it. Overall, these binaural microphones are a great investment for anyone looking to capture high-quality recordings.
Sound Professionals MS-TFB-2-MKII
If you want to make the most realistic recording possible, then Sound Professionals MS-TFB-2-MKII is the perfect choice for you.
Pros
- Ultra low noise, high-definition In-Ear Binaural microphones
- Extremely realistic recordings
- Premium Black cables with right angle connector
Cons
- Expensive
- Requires an external power source
- Not ideal for recording loud sounds
The MS-TFB-2-MKII Sound Professionals In-Ear Binaural microphones are designed to capture the most realistic recording possible. The microphone element is placed right next to the ear canal, well within the Pinna, which results in extremely realistic recordings.
These microphones have an ultra-low noise level and high-definition sound quality, which makes them perfect for recording ASMR, nature sounds, and other quiet sounds. The premium black cables with right angle connector make them easy to use and comfortable to wear.
However, they are quite expensive and require an external power source, which can be a hassle. Also, they are not ideal for recording loud sounds, as they have a maximum sound pressure level of 115dB with normal “plug-in-power” and 130dB with one of our power modules.
Overall, if you want to make the most realistic recordings possible, then Sound Professionals MS-TFB-2-MKII is the perfect choice for you.
SONICPRESENCE SP15V Binaural Video Microphone
If you are looking for professional-quality spatial audio recordings, then you should consider purchasing the SONICPRESENCE SP15V Binaural Video Microphone.
Pros
- Captures spatial audio recordings with 360° immersive sound
- Fits comfortably over your ears using ear hooks made of polyurethane synthetic rubber
- Compatible with DSLR and Mirrorless Cameras including Canon, Sony, Panasonic, Lumx, Nikon, and more
Cons
- Requires plug-in power
- Pricey compared to other microphones in the market
- Does not come with a carrying case
The SONICPRESENCE SP15V Binaural Video Microphone is designed to record spatial audio on the camera’s standard stereo audio track. It captures sound exactly the way you hear it, making it perfect for vlogging, mobile journalism, live events, documentaries, and ASMR.
The SP15V microphone is weatherproof and rugged, making it an ideal choice for outdoor recording. It comes with a camera connecting cable and foam windscreens. The SP15V uses the Camera’s PiP (plug-in-power), so there’s no need for batteries.
The SP15V microphone is made in the USA with patented technology. It is designed and developed by professional audio engineers in New York and Hollywood. Users include pro videographers, YouTubers, Grammy winners, and broadcasters.
In summary, if you are looking for a microphone that can capture professional-quality spatial audio recordings, the SONICPRESENCE SP15V Binaural Video Microphone is an excellent choice. It is compatible with a variety of cameras, fits comfortably over your ears, and captures sound exactly the way you hear it.
Buying Guide
When it comes to buying a binaural microphone, there are a few things to consider to ensure you get the best product for your needs.
Microphone Type
There are two main types of binaural microphones: in-ear and dummy head. In-ear microphones are small and fit inside the ear canal, while dummy head microphones are shaped like a human head and have microphones placed in the ears. In-ear microphones are more portable and less expensive, but dummy head microphones offer more accurate sound reproduction.
Frequency Response
The frequency response of a microphone refers to the range of frequencies it can pick up. Look for a binaural microphone with a wide frequency response to capture a full range of sounds. A frequency response of 20Hz to 20kHz is ideal for most applications.
Sensitivity
The sensitivity of a microphone refers to its ability to pick up quiet sounds. A higher sensitivity microphone will pick up more detail in quiet recordings, but may also pick up unwanted background noise. Look for a microphone with a sensitivity of at least -40dB.
Polar Pattern
The polar pattern of a microphone refers to the directionality of its pickup. Binaural microphones typically have an omnidirectional polar pattern, which means they pick up sound equally from all directions. This is important for capturing a natural, immersive sound.
Impedance
The impedance of a microphone refers to its resistance to electrical current. Look for a binaural microphone with a low impedance to ensure it can be used with a wide range of devices, including smartphones and portable recorders.
Accessories
Consider any additional accessories that may be necessary for your recording setup. This may include windscreens to reduce wind noise, shock mounts to reduce handling noise, or extension cables to increase the distance between the microphone and recording device.
By considering these factors when choosing a binaural microphone, you can ensure you get a product that meets your needs and delivers high-quality sound.
Aaron Smith is a frequent contributor to Singers Room. Since 2005, Singersroom has been the voice of R&B around the world. Connect with us via social media below.
